Renew in Person

Approximately 1 month before your commercial driving license is set to expire, the Department of Motor Vehicles will mail you a notice. You then must complete the renewal form and take it to your nearest DMV location.

This must be handled in person. You cannot mail it in, because all Vermont CDLs require current photos. And be sure to bring along all appropriate renewal fees (see below). You may also need to get a new Medical Examination Report (Form 649-F).

At the time of your renewal, you may choose to upgrade your license class or add endorsements. To do either of these, you'll need to take the appropriate tests and pay an additional fees for each endorsement or upgrade listed. The fees are listed at the end of this article.

Hazmat Endorsement Renewal

Unlike most other license renewals that require hardly anything more than your signature, renewing your hazardous materials endorsement takes some effort. Before you renew, you must pass a hazmat knowledge (written) test. The reason behind this is that hazmat transportation rules are constantly changing, and Vermont authorities want to make sure you are up to date on all revisions.

Even if you fail the test, you will be allowed to renew your CDL. However, you won't be allowed to haul placarded hazardous materials until you retake the exam and pass.

You will need to call Central Scheduling at (802) 828-2000 to schedule a test time.

In addition to the exam, because of provisions in the PATRIOT ACT, you will have to:

Complete a Federal Security Threat Assessment application.

Provide proof of U.S. citizenship (primary and secondary identification) or proof of your immigration status.

Have your fingerprints taken for the FBI database.

Submit to a federal and state background check.

In addition to your regular renewal fee, you will also have to pay for the background check and fingerprinting.

This whole ordeal is not a one-time process. Background checks and fingerprinting will be required every time you renew your hazmat endorsement.

Don't wait until the day before your license expires to begin the fingerprinting and background checks. These take time and could cause your license to expire if you wait until the last day.

Renewal and Testing Fees

CDL valid for 4 years: $90

CDL valid for 2 years: $60

CDL subsequent test: $32

CDL knowledge test: $32

Each endorsement test: $14

New Federal Requirements

You must self-certify your type of vehicle operation with the Vermont DMV. This means you must self-certify one of the following driving categories:

Non-Excepted Interstate

Excepted Interstate

Non-Excepted Intrastate

Excepted Intrastate

If you choose Non-Excepted Interstate, you must provide the DMV with a federal medical certificate.